Hurricane Erin Intensifies to Category 3, Leeward Islands on Alert as East Coast Braces for Swells

Hurricane Erin has rapidly strengthened into a powerful Category 3 storm, packing maximum sustained winds of 120 mph, making it the first major hurricane of the 2025 Atlantic season. Tropical storm watches are currently in effect for the Northern Leeward Islands, including St. Martin, St. Barts, Anguilla, and Barbuda, where breezy and rainy conditions are anticipated over the next 48 hours.

Erin is projected to pass near or north of the Leeward Islands throughout Saturday, potentially bringing up to six inches of rain. Over the weekend, the hurricane is expected to move north of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, where outer bands could deliver 2 to 4 inches of rain, raising concerns for isolated flash flooding, mudslides, and gusty winds of 40 to 50 mph. Forecasters warn that Erin could intensify further, potentially reaching Category 4 status with gusts up to 140 mph by Sunday morning.

Looking ahead to next week, Erin is forecast to continue its northwest track, remaining well east of the Bahamas and the U.S. East Coast. Despite staying offshore, significant impacts are still expected along the Atlantic coastline. Large waves and life-threatening rip currents are predicted to reach coastal areas from August 20 to August 27. Coastal erosion, particularly along North Carolina’s Outer Banks, poses a serious threat, with waves potentially reaching 8 to 12 feet. Other areas of South Carolina and Virginia could see waves up to 6 feet.

This active hurricane development comes as the National Hurricane Center has predicted an above-normal Atlantic hurricane season, with August, September, and October typically being the most active months before the season concludes on November 30.

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